The exodus could lead to a new national conference of Catholic schools, potentially including St. Mary's and Gonzaga.

The Big East has provisions in its bylaws that allow a group of schools to leave without exit fees.

Notre Dame head coach Mike Brey told ESPN that the seven schools have had discussions about the formation of a national conference of Catholic schools. St. Mary's has not been approached about the potential league, an athletic department spokesman said.

PAC-12 MEN

Washington 87, Seattle 74:

Scott Suggs played through leg cramps to score a career-high 24 points for the visiting Huskies (5-4), who led by as many as 27 in the first half against the crosstown rival Redhawks (3-4).